Streamer to kill the big boys for under $250

[Blizzard]

Not directly...but by transititive property, it is certainly better. I compared WS2012 in core with AO directly to DAC with running WS2012 in core with AO running as an NAA and running NAA was definitely better...more transparent, more natural revealing of subtle details, and surprisingly bass was more articulate too. All setups were via HQPlayer of course.

Really look forward to being able to run native DSD for the ultimate test. DoP via a low powered Linux NAA seems to be the equal (possibly better) of WS2012 in native, so definitely positive potential for further improvement. Even if equal, I may just sell my caps/WS2012 computer to someone that isn't able to run an NAA setup for some reason.

Now I just need to be confident Roon has progressed to the point where integration issues don't peeve me off too much so I can take that plunge.

BTW...you built that PS yourself I assume? Do you use it just for the NUC?

Excellent. We now have further confirmation that using the server/streamer NAA system even with battery power supplies, beats an audiophile server direct.

As far as the Roon/HQplayer integration, there was some issues with some lower powered computers on the first 64bit Roon release that caused lost sync between Roon and HQplayer on occasion. But it was only on power deficient computers as I experienced the same issues on my I3 NUC running HQplayer as server, but not when using my I7 4790 quad core server. However that's old news because Roon released a fix a couple days ago with the latest Roon update anyways. So as long as your server has the power to run HQplayer on its own, it should be fine with the Roon integration now.

About the supply. It's an ultra low noise 12v 3 amp supply. It can be used to power the NUC, but also anything else requiring clean 12v power with 3A or less current. I'm considering adding an additional 9v out tap using the phenomenal Belleson ultra low noise regulators to power the FMC for use with this streamer.

This supply is truly cutting edge utilizing the latest technology for combining ultra low noise, superior mains noise rejection, combined with unparalleled reliability.

If I can see interest, I may even make a version with the FMC built in. So we will have a fiber SFP input and output via super high quality Neutrik Ethernet port on the back of the supply to connect to the streamer. This simplifies the system, and allows for superior connections and noise isolation.

 

[Blizzard]

What specific Roon integration issues? Was this based on recent experience? BTW, I ordered a PS from Mike and its on route. I will let everyone know how it shakes out.

They were only issues with lower powered PC's. But a fix was released a few days ago anyways. Yes please share your impressions on the supply.

 

[BobShermanEsq]

Hi Guys,

An excellent switch option has been brought to my attention. It's a gigabit switch that has 16 ports as well as dual SFP fiber ports for only $107. With this switch you would only need 1 FMC on the streamer end. However it's not wireless, so you would still need a wireless router in the system if you want to run the Roon iPad app. Most modems that are provided by your internet server provider nowadays have wireless connectivity built in them anyways. That can be used to connect the iPad, or laptop for remote GUI.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...rue&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_9&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

People have found that it is better not to use a mixed fiber and Ethernet switch. Better to just use a fiber switch and leave the Ethernet ports unused. A useful item would be a switch like this. http://www.diablocable.com/18196.html A better power supply can also be used, as opposed to the internal supply in the large switch. The switch you listed really provides no benefit.

 

[Blizzard]

People have found that it is better not to use a mixed fiber and Ethernet switch. Better to just use a fiber switch and leave the Ethernet ports unused. A useful item would be a switch like this. http://www.diablocable.com/18196.html A better power supply can also be used, as opposed to the internal supply in the large switch. The switch you listed really provides no benefit.

I can't see why it would matter as all noise is isolated anyways via the fiber. The Fiber ports are Ethernet ports as well. But of course the easier and cheapest method would be to use a FMC connected to a regular gigabit router. But It could possibly be better connecting the server to the same switch that has the SFP ports, rather than running an Ethernet cable to a FMC from a standard router.

Explain what the disadvantages would be with using the same switch to connect the server computer to the copper input, and the streamer FMC to the fiber output of the same switch.

How could it be possibly be better to connect a server to a standard router, then to a FMC, and from there to the expensive Diablo switch, than having the copper Ethernet input, and fiber out all on the same switch that only costs $107?

 

[BobShermanEsq]

This supply is truly cutting edge utilizing the latest technology for combining ultra low noise, superior mains noise rejection, combined with unparalleled reliability.

If I can see interest, I may even make a version with the FMC built in. So we will have a fiber SFP input and output via super high quality Neutrik Ethernet port on the back of the supply to connect to the streamer. This simplifies the system, and allows for superior connections and noise isolation.

This is very entertaining...

Other than the Belleson regulators, how is this, "cutting edge"? The Ebay case? Is it the lighted power switch? Some actually find they may add noise. Just curious...

How can you claim "unparalleled reliability" for something you just built? Just curious...

How does putting stuff in one box that probably should not be together, "allows for superior connections and noise isolation"? Just curious...

 

[Germanboxers]

What specific Roon integration issues? Was this based on recent experience? BTW, I ordered a PS from Mike and its on route. I will let everyone know how it shakes out.

Not personal experience...just reading CA and Roon forums suggested some frustrating disconnect and latency issues. I trialed it for 2 weeks before HQ integration and the interface rocks. I'm close to pulling the trigger on a lifetime.

 

[Blizzard]

This is very entertaining...

Other than the Belleson regulators, how is this, "cutting edge"? The Ebay case? Is it the lighted power switch? Some actually find they may add noise. Just curious...

How can you claim "unparalleled reliability" for something you just built? Just curious...

How does putting stuff in one box that probably should not be together, "allows for superior connections and noise isolation"? Just curious...

The LED on the front has a more pleasing glow to it. Other than that it's complete crap.

 

[BobShermanEsq]

Other than that it's complete crap.

Your power supply?

Oh... ok... Thank you for the clarification...

 

[Geardaddy]

Not personal experience...just reading CA and Roon forums suggested some frustrating disconnect and latency issues. I trialed it for 2 weeks before HQ integration and the interface rocks. I'm close to pulling the trigger on a lifetime.

Kool. I wil be getting the lifetime version as well. How did your new listening room turn out? I posted a Q on Audiogon but you have been MIA....

 

[Germanboxers]

Kool. I wil be getting the lifetime version as well. How did your new listening room turn out? I posted a Q on Audiogon but you have been MIA....

Listening room is awesome...really enjoy it. Wish my current work allowed for the long lazy listening sessions I had in my younger years. How are the little ones?

 

[Geardaddy]

Listening room is awesome...really enjoy it. Wish my current work allowed for the long lazy listening sessions I had in my younger years. How are the little ones?

It looks beautiful. There is nothing like a good room. The little beasts are now 4 and 1. Time has zoomed by.....

 

[Folsom]

It's the other way around. The AC powercon input is for an AC powercon connection. The DC barrel connector is for DC output.

Yes, but it's the incorrect designation. Don't let any proaudio guys play with it, with that designated color.

 

[Blizzard]

Yes, but it's the incorrect designation. Don't let any proaudio guys play with it, with that designated color.

Well I'm not worried about that. They are both the same thing just different color. Blue wouldn't have looked good. If someone is actually connecting a cable up to it with hopes of powering an AC appliance with it, they should probably check themselves into the nearest psychiatric ward. Either way if they do, nothing bad will happen. Actually nothing will happen.

 

[Folsom]

Well I'm not worried about that. They are both the same thing just different color. Blue wouldn't have looked good. If someone is actually connecting a cable up to it with hopes of powering an AC appliance with it, they should probably check themselves into the nearest psychiatric ward. Either way if they do, nothing bad will happen. Actually nothing will happen.

Unless someone thought the DC jack was for an SMPS in. It's probably safe.

 

[Blizzard]

Unless someone thought the DC jack was for an SMPS in. It's probably safe.

Well I suppose anything that involves electricity should be kept well away from these people.

Anyways, it's not a commercial product. It's a one off supply I built for Geardaddy. It just so happened he asked me about supplies at the same time I was buying power supply parts. So I told him I could build him one. Not sure if I want to get into the power supply business, but there does seem to be limited choice around the $400 mark that's from North American origin.

 

[Geardaddy]

Unless someone thought the DC jack was for an SMPS in. It's probably safe.

thanks for that. I will proceed with caution.....

 

[Muser]

Mike:
I just discovered this thread and feel a bit lost by some of the carping on this thread. This sounds do-able, but I’d like to check in first:

I have a LampizatOr Euforia (DSD only) DAC. I will be streaming from a Mac Mini 1.4GHz - not fast enough for DSD 128, fine for DSD64. Sound is acceptable to me for now. If more processing is needed, I will cross that bridge later.

Allow me to reiterate what I believe you’ve suggested:

I will need a computer to run HQPlayer as a server; I’ll be starting with the Mac Mini mentioned or my wife’s HP with i7 processor.
a copy of HQPlayer (have it loaded on Mac Mini)

Purchase:
Intel Thin Canyon NUC (~$145);
Crucial 4GB single DDR RAM chip;
a 16GB flash drive to load Audiolinux OR
Purchase a stick from you with audiolinux optimized (more or less) for this NUC
(I'm pretty sure I left the rails here)

What I can do:
Purchase copy of Roon to use with a tablet/phone/?
Linear power supply 12-24volts with 25 watts output to replace SMPS.

Am I close? Are you still offering the RAM stuck and USB sticks? Still $75? How would I obtain this stick?

 

[Blizzard]

Mike:
I just discovered this thread and feel a bit lost by some of the carping on this thread. This sounds do-able, but I’d like to check in first:

I have a LampizatOr Euforia (DSD only) DAC. I will be streaming from a Mac Mini 1.4GHz - not fast enough for DSD 128, fine for DSD64. Sound is acceptable to me for now. If more processing is needed, I will cross that bridge later.

Allow me to reiterate what I believe you’ve suggested:

I will need a computer to run HQPlayer as a server; I’ll be starting with the Mac Mini mentioned or my wife’s HP with i7 processor.
a copy of HQPlayer (have it loaded on Mac Mini)

Purchase:
Intel Thin Canyon NUC (~$145);
Crucial 4GB single DDR RAM chip;
a 16GB flash drive to load Audiolinux OR
Purchase a stick from you with audiolinux optimized (more or less) for this NUC
(I'm pretty sure I left the rails here)

What I can do:
Purchase copy of Roon to use with a tablet/phone/?
Linear power supply 12-24volts with 25 watts output to replace SMPS.

Am I close? Are you still offering the RAM stuck and USB sticks? Still $75? How would I obtain this stick?

Hi Muser,

Yes the above listed parts will get you started. You don't even need the linear power supply to get started. You can start out with the basics, and upgrade to Better supplies and fiber optic isolation etc as you go if you want. Or you can decide to do it all in 1 shot. Up to you. Anyways send me a PM and I can set you up with instructions for the image download to burn on a stick. Also I can answer any other questions you have.

Thanks,
Mike

 

[USGrant]

Hi Muser,

Yes the above listed parts will get you started. You don't even need the linear power supply to get started. You can start out with the basics, and upgrade to Better supplies and fiber optic isolation etc as you go if you want. Or you can decide to do it all in 1 shot. Up to you. Anyways send me a PM and I can set you up with instructions for the image download to burn on a stick. Also I can answer any other questions you have.

Thanks,
Mike

I have enjoyed reading about your project. To find out more about purchasing your image I will send you a private message. How many people have built the system with your image already? Looks very promising.

 

[Blizzard]

I have enjoyed reading about your project. To find out more about purchasing your image I will send you a private message. How many people have built the system with your image already? Looks very promising.

I'm glad you enjoyed reading this. I think about 9 guys so far, some more than 1 system. So far everyone likes it. Only one issue so far from a guy who had a firmware bug in his router. Updated his router firmware and solved the problem.